C.L.E.A.N. Recycling Solutions

Closed Loop Solvent Recycling System

C.L.E.A.N., the Closed Loop Environmental Alliance Network, draws together an array of industry partners to provide environmental products and services to the print and graphic sectors.

Over the past 5 years, C.L.E.A.N. has worked with its partners in adapting existing technologies to recover solvents used in the lithographic printing industry. These volatile organic compounds (VOCs) would otherwise be mixed with fuel and burned in cement kilns, be disposed of in landfills, or be flushed into the sewer system. In each case, these compounds pose a serious environmental hazard. Many of them are toxic and, during decomposition, will release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to the problem of greenhouse gases. (The solvent industry is included under the Kyoto Protocol as a producer of greenhouse gases.)

Through its innovative Closed Loop Solvent Recycling System, C.L.E.A.N. preempts this process, reclaiming over 30,000 liters of mixed solvent per week. Once separated and purified, the recovered solvents meet or exceed printer manufacturer's specifications and are funneled back into production. Besides playing an important role in Canada's commitment to the Kyoto Protocol, this process reduces a substantial drain on our natural resources.

C.L.E.A.N. presently serves the Ontario and Quebec markets, but has the potential to provide national coverage.